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Zeroth Post
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Zeroth




Posting Expectations: Casual - Advanced
Genre(s): Mecha, Science Fiction, Anime
Players: 6 or 8

[ ♫ ]

It’s another mecha! But wait, it’s not Polaris? What’s going on?!

That’s a good question.

As opposed to Polaris, Midnight Sun: Last Song Over the Horizon doesn’t take from the stories reflecting post-apocalyptic survivors and the megacorporations that control their world but rather interstellar consequences, planetary gambits, and space pirates running amuck to the will of the interstellar bureaucrats that want to control the galaxy like a game of chess. The influences of this new, engaging world include the works of Katsuyuki Sumizawa, Hideaki Anno, Paul Wang, and Yūichi Sasamoto. In short, if you like Gundam Wing, Mecha Ace: Heroes of the Vedrian War, or Top wo Nerae! Gunbuster this is probably for you.

Players will play would-be pilots from the Taiyōtawa Interstellar Piloting Academy, a training ground and educational facility that is run by benefactors and officials related to the government of Terra Nova, a former capital planet that shares lineage with planets such as Alpha Centauri, Eridanius, Cygnus, Procyon, Sirius, and Mars. Pirates run rampant throughout various solar systems, corporate shells debate how best to make an interstellar dollar, and corrupt governments look how to best manipulate one another. The world of Midnight Sun is treacherous, but generally little is known to the students of Taiyōtawa as they are rather young men and women of little experience.

It’ll take sharp wits to survive what is to come for them.




Established in 2719, Taiyōtawa Academy was named after the first man to walk on Terra Nova, Isao Taiyōtawa, in recognition of the courage every Terran holds within their soul.

The purpose of Taiyōtawa Academy centers around the interests of the New Eden Group, the corporate conglomerate that advance technology in the name of confederate liberty. For almost ten years Taiyōtawa has served as a training ground for the best and brightest in all of the confederacy in preparing them for their future as ICW pilots. For a select group of these cadets this extends to the second iteration of PROJECT VALKYRIE, the special projects division of the Terran military that turn the tides of battle through their potential to fly the most important of all ICWs: Valkyries. For those admitted to the project division of the academy they will need to be compatible prospects that the New Eden Group needs. These cadets do not need to be perfect, but they do need to have a certain element to be compatible with the idea.

But there's a lot more to PROJECT VALKYRIE than meets the eye...




Interstellar Combat Weapons have been in development in the galaxy for centuries preceding the modern development of the armors that have come to be known as “valkyries”.

The invention of the first valkyrie is comparative to gunpowder, electricity, or the desktop computer – it is a marvel of science that has changed the way war is waged. A government no longer needs to invest in ridiculously large interstellar fleets or expensive superweapons to win a gambit. The minimization of expending resources has helped these governments focus on more important things, though these valkyries are by no means inexpensive to make or maintain; it isn’t so simple as throwing a pilot and a gunner into the armored suit and hope for the best. Beyond all of the special alloys and state-of-the-art computers, a valkyrie is something more than just an armored golem. A valkyrie requires a special element, an element that still perplexes scientists to this day. A human element.

The difference between a valkyrie and any normal mecha is that a valkyrie’s power output and mobility is far greater and as such has a certain “crux” that limits who can and cannot operate such a weapon. A valkyrie requires a two-user synchronization to function correctly, necessitating the coordinators to be of two separate minds (and genders) yet of the same will in addition to genetically matching the “wavelength” the synchronization asks for.

Each unit's onboard computer system is copied from a baseline "seed program" developed by the original creators of the Valkyries that is designed to statistically evaluate every action taken during operational activity and then select and prioritize those proven to be most frequently effective. How precisely this program learns and functions has been lost to time, as its code is in a bizarre and archaic but hyper-efficient format that is no longer in use outside of this one specific field, and, if converted into another form, becomes so massive and bug-ridden as to slow its processing speed to a crawl. In its functional format, however, this code allows each valkyrie quickly develops its own set of learned and favored tactics based on the abilities of its pilot, its armaments, and the data it logs during combat. But due to the density of this data and the sheer amount of information it stockpiles, it's impossible to parse through it all with any level of efficiency, even for an automated program. As such, the only effective method that has been found is for a dedicated human operator to interface directly with the machine, serving to interpret its data and implement the most optimally effective strategy based on the situation.

But coordinators do not exactly have it easy, either. Not only do coordinators have to function in pairs, they have to make the correct wavelength. When in the machine this translates to being “connected” in the rawest way possible. Essentially, to put it simply, the pilot and the gunner are in each other’s heads. Literally. Both individuals rely on being focused and not deviating from the same thought or emotional process – any deviation can result in non-optimal results as well as the potential of critical or fatal injury.




The origin of Synchronization between two humans lies in an unusual mental phenomena known as “Harmonic Wavelengths”. These Wavelengths are somewhat nebulous in origin, but appear to be the result of reciprocal mental influence caused by constant interaction and intense emotional bonds. Much like how seeing a loved one in pain stimulates similar brain activity in the viewer as in the sufferer, those who share similar thoughts, relationships, feelings, and ideals are capable of coordinating their brains to work on a complementary wavelength to each other. The stronger the bonds, the broader the range of these wavelengths, making the connection clearer and more efficient, as well as easier to maintain. Those with only the minimum level of compatibility must struggle to maintain an almost meditative trance state in order to properly coordinate their thoughts, resulting in a state of two minds independently working on the same problem at once. This can result in redundancies, or sometimes in outright conflict if both parties reach a separate conclusion due to diverging brain patterns. Those who are strongly compatible, however, can very easily slip into a more perfect state of Synchronization where they are effectively two minds with one goal: unilaterally processing separate facets of the same problem, and complementing each other perfectly.

Coordinators are, as you might expect, subdivided into two types based on their role in operating a Valkyrie unit. These two types are, respectively, Physical Coordinators (PCs) - who manage the immediate control and operations of the unit as its pilot - and Tactical Coordinators (TCs) - who interface with the unit's learning computer system and advanced sensory equipment in order to scan the area, identify enemy units, formulate a tactical plan to combat them, and then transmit that data to the pilot as a navigational and targeting aid. The primary difference between these two types is not only one of role, but also one of physical condition and mental aptitudes.

Coordinator pairs are generally assigned some time after enrollment in a training academy. Students are give initial compatibility tests administered by a staff of behavioral psychologists. Based on the results of these tests, they are matched up with multiple prospective partners in order to run extremely simplified simulations on how Valkyrie operation works, allowing the pilots to learn the controls while their partners interface with and call out information from a tactical database. Finally, based on their performance, and on the requests of the Coordinators involved, prospective pairs are assigned to Synchro Training, where they attempt to fully synchronize in order to operate a personalized training unit. If they cannot achieve Synchronization within the expected time, they go back to preliminary selection and try again.




While Midnight Sun does not use a dice-based system, there is a use of a stat-based profile system for both types of coordinators. These fields are divided into five sections with players being allowed to add ten points in total outside of those given for each attribute by default. These attributes will be explained below.





The Confederacy of Terra Nova
The good guys; or at least that's the perception. The opposition against imperial domination and the voice of democracy in a sheltered, sparse part of the galaxy. Each planet in the confederacy holds absolute say how they run their homeworld, though their input in the faction is necessary in the face of an industrious and gluttonous enemy that wishes to consume and destroy their very identity and way of life. If not for the invention of PROJECT VALKYRIE and its success against overwhelming odds, the confederacy may very well have been consumed in the last fifty years.

The New Solar Republic
The government of Earth, Luna, Mars, and the central colonies within the Sol System. Loosely affiliated with the Confederacy, Solars have long since halted concerns of their colonies following a tepid peace with The Ascendancy’s government and a brutal crisis on Mars and Earth. The Confederate government has been told that it will get as much support as Sol can muster, though it appears this is a weak gesture at best. As such the Republic is largely a non-factor in the realm of farspace colonies and their subsequent politics.

The Ascendancy
Established by a deep space interstellar warlord that declared independence from the New Solar Republic several centuries ago, The Ascendancy is an interstellar imperialist faction based on the planet of Canis Prime – a world of rich industry that is located in the Procyon System. Within colonial space it is the Ascendancy that represents the greatest threat outside of pirates and cartel influence. Several conflicts have arisen between Ascendants and Confederates with the most recent one escalating into a full scale war that is still in motion to this very day despite a decade old ceasefire.




Datafile 1: Additional Coordinator Details, Risks, and Traits


Datafile 2: Long-Term Effects of Synchronization





2727 CE
- Present Date

2720 CE
- A ceasefire occurs between the Confederacy and the Ascendancy, leading to the end of the war.

2717 CE
- A brutal battle occurs resulting in the loss of several valkyries and their pilots. One survivor, Kalian Cyris, is recognized as an interstellar hero.

2685 CE
- The New Eden Group begins PROJECT VALKYRIE under direction of Dr. Øystein Åkerfeldt.

2678 CE
- Ascendants invade the Sirius System, sparking a war of conquest against the Confederacy of Terra Nova.

2658
- Dr. Øystein Åkerfeldt is born on Terra Nova.




Pacing: Activity will be left vague as social obligations such as employment, academics, and so forth take precedent over a shared hobby. But we should try to post with some regularity. Obligations will be reminded if needed, but this is a low stress endeavor so we shouldn't feel the need to make extreme demands regarding this. Just communicate your schedule when there are issues and keep me informed is the bulk of it.

Writing Ability: The writing level I expect is somewhere around medium expectations (high school-level equivalent). This means comprehensive understanding of basic grammar and spelling is expected, characterization is important, narrative is important, and detail behind those are appreciated. I’d like to see a few paragraphs, though if it fits a post that there is enough to respond to and react to within one paragraph than that’s fine, but one-liner’s will definitely be off-base. Keep with the fluidity and enjoy yourself; though quality posts don’t have to be textbooks. Quality over Quantity, yet have fun and make engaging moments of introspection and interaction. With that said, I will not be putting posts under extreme analysis nor will I be inciting a “word count”. So just use your personal judgment of quality and we’ll be awesome.

Etiquette: Rule number zero of my perspective is pretty simple; don’t test my patience or be an irredeemable jerk. Generally, the idea here is a simplified version of any sort of rules since we are all adults and we pretty much know the big rules — follow the host site’s rules, communicate, collaborate, and don’t be antagonistic towards others or at the very least keep the toxicity to a bare minimum. Playful banter and crass jokes are one thing; but actively making somebody feel unwelcome is another one entirely. There is a difference between being blunt and being tactless.

Applying: I will be reviewing sheets on their merits with my co-GM staff.
Hidden 8 yrs ago 8 yrs ago Post by mickilennial
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Here's the character sheet for your peruse. Don't fuck it up.


Hidden 8 yrs ago Post by Sloth
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Sloth The Potato Salad of People

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That was fast.
Hidden 8 yrs ago Post by mickilennial
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I said a few minutes!
Hidden 8 yrs ago 8 yrs ago Post by Kuro
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Kuro ᴋᴇᴇᴘ ʏᴏᴜʀ ᴇʏᴇꜱ ᴏɴ / ᴛʜᴇ ʀᴏᴀᴅ ᴀʜᴇᴀᴅ

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1x Thank Thank
Hidden 8 yrs ago Post by Sloth
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Sloth The Potato Salad of People

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That was also fast.
Hidden 8 yrs ago 8 yrs ago Post by Feyblue
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coGM
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Feyblue Lord of Floof

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EDIT: I AM THE LAW, I APPROVE MYSELF, NO BIO HERE MOVE ALONG
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Kuro ᴋᴇᴇᴘ ʏᴏᴜʀ ᴇʏᴇꜱ ᴏɴ / ᴛʜᴇ ʀᴏᴀᴅ ᴀʜᴇᴀᴅ

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That was also fast.


Gotta go fast.

Hidden 8 yrs ago Post by mickilennial
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You a GM, put your WIP where it belongs. In the accepted characters tab! You are above da rules.
Hidden 8 yrs ago Post by Feyblue
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Feyblue Lord of Floof

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Oh. Right. Forgot about that.
Hidden 8 yrs ago 7 yrs ago Post by Sloth
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Sloth The Potato Salad of People

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1x Thank Thank
Hidden 8 yrs ago Post by Riegal
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Riegal

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Hidden 8 yrs ago 8 yrs ago Post by Rigmarole
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Rigmarole

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@Inkarnate@Feyblue

I’ve prepared two sheets, like I said in the other thread, so I'm ready to go with either as needed. Though, if they're acceptable, I'd prefer to go with the first of the two sheets if that fits with the final roster.



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Hidden 8 yrs ago Post by mickilennial
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The picture/header doesn't need to be in a hider, btw. But it's looking good so far, we'll let you know once me and Fey have a think.
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Kuro ᴋᴇᴇᴘ ʏᴏᴜʀ ᴇʏᴇꜱ ᴏɴ / ᴛʜᴇ ʀᴏᴀᴅ ᴀʜᴇᴀᴅ

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The picture/header doesn't need to be in a hider, btw. But it's looking good so far, we'll let you know once me and Fey have a think.


If I may comment: even if the pictures don't need to be in a hider, it'd probably be a good idea to resize them. @Rigmarole Toya's image is massive for me.
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If I may comment: even if the pictures don't need to be in a hider, it'd probably be a good idea to resize them. @Rigmarole Toya's image is massive for me.

My monitor reads them fine, but y'know it is kinda wide as fuck.
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Kuro ᴋᴇᴇᴘ ʏᴏᴜʀ ᴇʏᴇꜱ ᴏɴ / ᴛʜᴇ ʀᴏᴀᴅ ᴀʜᴇᴀᴅ

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<Snipped quote by Sola>
My monitor reads them fine, but y'know it is kinda wide as fuck.


It's the same issue as Sloth's picture in your D&D RP. The picture loads fine, it's just needlessly huge.
Hidden 8 yrs ago Post by mickilennial
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It's the same issue as Sloth's picture in your D&D RP. The picture loads fine, it's just needlessly huge.

Plz don't bring up bad memories.
Hidden 8 yrs ago Post by Rigmarole
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Rigmarole

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@Inkarnate
Thanks for your consideration.

@Sola
No problem, I've resized and edited. I figured they were a little big, and so I had 'em hidden, but this works too.
Hidden 8 yrs ago Post by mickilennial
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@Riegal Gonna just accept this as the first CS. I think the backstory is undeniably unique, though I'm quite curious how it is going to play out in the RP. I've already got ideas. You can move it over to the characters tab.
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Hidden 8 yrs ago Post by Stern Algorithm
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Stern Algorithm Loquacious Aggression

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Well, looks like I'm gonna try to shoot for another @Inkarnate RP.

Just throwing in my interest for now and will create a CS after I've read all of the opening post.

As it stands, what is the gender ratio?
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